Becca Stevens Band – “Perfect Animal”

To classify Becca Stevens (and her appropriately named Becca Stevens Band) as exclusively anything would be doing her an incredible disservice. Over time, she’s proven to be one of the most versatile songwriters and performers out there, and her latest record Perfect Animal builds on that reputation. And while her earlier records, Tea By Sea, andWeightless fit more into Folk, Jazz, and Classical, Perfect Animal goes pretty deep into pop music territory.

Perfect Animal starts out with the folky “I Asked”- featuring some charango, or maybe it’s Ukulele – Stevens does play some unique instruments, and a really interesting rhythm. “Imperfect Animals” is almost a full-on rock track, with a driving drumbeat and aggressively strummed guitar, and a little bit of synth. Where the album takes a turn is at the cover of the Frank Ocean track “Thinkin’ Bout You”, Stevens’ voice suits this track so well, floating over the instruments. It’s not the only cover on the record, Stevens completely reimagines Steve Windwood’s “Higher Love”, and a really awesome cover of “You Make Me Wanna” by Usher. It’s really fun listening to Stevens and her band’s take on some of these songs, and it makes Perfect Animal more accessible for the casual listener.

There are some amazing original tracks on here as well. Hearing a track like “Be Still”, it should be no surprise that the record was produced by Scott Solter, who’s worked with acts like St. Vincent in the past. Perfect Animal is a really impressive record from a band that really isn’t afraid to try something different. You can pick it up on Amazon, iTunes, or Google Play, and as always connect with Becca Stevens on Twitter, Facebook, Soundcloud, and her website.